Manufactured in 1942. The shotgun has the take-down frame, low comb stock and six hole hand guard/bayonet lug that are characteristic of most WWII Model 1897 Trench Guns. The receiver, barrel, magazine tube and hand guard have the Winchester commercial blue finish. The walnut stock and forearm have a varnish finish. The stock has a replacement black checkered hard rubber buttplate with the Winchester logo in a circle. The rear lower left side of the receiver is marked with "U.S." followed by the ordnance bomb, the left rear of the barrel is marked "MODEL 97 - WINCHESTER - 12 GA. / -TRADE MARK-" followed by "2 3/4 CHAM. / CYL.", the top of the barrel at the breech is marked with the ordnance bomb and the Winchester oval proof, and the two line address/patent dates are on the right rear. The date of manufacture "42" (1942) is stamped on the underside. The Winchester oval proof is also marked on the top of the receiver at the breech. Mounted with an 18 groove forearm and smooth pistol grip stock with a boxed "W.B." over the crossed cannon cartouche. The bottom of the stock is fitted with a sling swivel. Complete with a Model 1917 bayonet with leather scabbard. The bayonet is marked "1917 / circled W" on one side of the ricasso and "eagle head/J-25 ordnance bomb X" over "US" on the opposite. Winchester Model 1897 Trench Guns were widely used Marine Corps combat units in the Pacific Theater in WWII.

Condition:

Fine. The shotgun retains 60% plus original blue finish with some minor pitting on the left rear of the barrel, on the slide arm, left side and top of the receiver. There is some bright high edge wear and some heavy wear on the magazine tube. The receiver also shows a number of scratches and dings. There is some minor spotting on the hand guard. The wood is also good with several minor pressure dents on the right side of the stock and overall some scattered minor scratches, with crisp inspection marks. All markings are clear. The action is fine. The bayonet is good with a gray patina on the blade and a few minor dents and dings on the grip. The scabbard is very good with almost all of the original green finish, showing some scuffs on the leather and finish chipping on the metal throat and tip.